Salads aren’t just for dieters anymore. Consumers who are looking for healthier and functional dining options are adding salads to meals, or opting for salads as meals when dining out at restaurants. A few twists on salads can take them to the next level. The difference between a ‘salad” and a ‘bowl” can be in their size, and the amount of protein, rice or grain ingredients relative to greens and vegetables. In functionality, protein is a
big winner and “protein bowls” have become more widespread.

Food Halls continue to appear all across the country, and are gaining breakneck momentum in the Washington, D.C. area. According to a report by Cushman Wakefield, there’s a reason these food halls are as popular and appealing as they are. Food Halls in North America 2018 notes how economically robust the concept is for developers and restaurant operators.

Uber and Venmo have partnered to add the Venmo digital wallet service as a payment method to Uber Eats and the Uber ride-sharing service. Uber riders will be able to pay with a Venmo balance, linked bank account, credit card or debit card so they can easily split the cost. Furthermore, the connectivity between the apps as a major convenience to users... the riding experience can be shared with an emoji that is specific to the Uber-Venmo partnership.

...Asian Island foods, a trend identified by Chicago-based consultancy Technomic. It has propelled Asian Island chicken on menus. At the same time, consumers are looking for protein alternatives to meat and are driving an interest in the creation of more food products and menu items that tap the nutrition and appeal of pulses and plant-based proteins.

Three of the most exciting new healthy beverage trends for 2018...Healthier ingredients in drinks, juices, shakes, and smoothies...already enjoying massive popularity due to testimonials from health food advocates and social media influencers, juices and smoothies are the rage.